Review: FOOTLOOSE, Opera House Manchester - UK tour

Photo credit: Mark Senior

Based on the true story of a small town in Oklahoma in 1979 where dances were banned due to a law passed in the 1800’s that forbade dancing within the city limits, Footloose tells the story of Ren who moves from the city of Chicago to the rural backwater of Bomont, only for him to discover that dancing and rock music are banned. Ren decides to take matters in to his own hands and all hell breaks loose until the whole town are on their feet dancing again.

Including classic 80’s songs ‘Holding Out for a Hero’, ‘Let’s Hear It For The Boy’ and of course, ‘Footloose’, we’re set for an evening of retro dance moves and nostalgic legwarmers!

Joshua Hawkins appears as Ren McCormack, portraying the city boy with charisma but who just seems to keep putting his foot in it, even though he means well.  Lucy Munden plays Ariel Moore, the daughter of the Reverend, a good girl trying to express herself without upsetting her devoutly religious parents.  They have good chemistry together and harmonise beautifully during ‘Almost Paradise’ as we see them finally get together.

Surrounding Ariel are her three friends, Urleen (Samantha Richards), Wendy-Jo (Jess Barker) and Rusty (Oonagh Cox), who complementing one another with their comic timing and talented vocals.  Cox is particularly one to watch for the future, it’s hard to believe she only graduated from training last year!

Tom Mussell as Chuck is an impressive bad boy and Jake Quickenden as Willard is a contrasting and lovable cowboy, balancing comedy with showcasing his singing talents (look out for the silver pants, ladies!) 

Singer and actor Darren Day appears as Rev. Shaw Moore, the unofficial head of the town, who wants to ban everything to protect the younger generation.  Having recently toured as Billy Flynn in Chicago, this role is far from that but highlights Day’s talents and versatility.

With impressive choreography by Matt Cole including skipping guitar players, 80’s tunes and a company of actor musicians, there is endless talent on stage and this production will not disappoint.

So transport yourself back to the golden age of the 80’s and join the fight for your right to dance!

A captivating, impressively entertaining and fun performance.

***** Five stars

Reviewed by: Rachel Louise Martin

Footloose plays at the Opera House, Manchester until 5 March before touring across the UK until 20 August.  For more information and to book tickets for select venues, please click here.